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The action takes place in the apartments of Paul Wentworth (O'Donnell), in Paris. Paul, a man leading a desultory life, changes when he meets Zila (Adams), a gypsy violinist. He paints her portrait, making him famous. They become engaged. Zila invites friends to supper because she is lonesome while Paul is away. Lucien (Robert Brister), one of the guests, remains after the rest. He listens to Zila's playing and declares his love for her, forcing her into an embrace just as Paul returns. Angry words are said, Zila leaves and Paul calls for absinthe. After two years Zila is a stage favorite and Paul, through grief and absinthe, is a wreck. Lucien induces her to come to the apartments but she secrets herself when Paul arrives. Paul, in a paroxysm of grief, faints. Zila plays some of her old melodies which he used to love, winning him back to consciousness. There is a happy meeting.
The sketch is no doubt well liked, taking six curtains on Monday night - an unusual thing for a dramatic playlet.
The well known violinist, Mabelle Adams, has partnered with O'Donnell in a winning dramatic sketch. The acting is not overdone and the story is cleverly told, both principals doing excellent work. Miss Adams' Hungarian dialect deserves credit for being both clever and unusual.
Source:
Variety 22:12 (05/27/1911)